Works on paper and photographs generally benefit from having a mat included in custom framing materials. A mat helps keep the piece in place, enhances the focal point, and keeps the glass from being directly on the artwork.

A simple way to add something special to a 2D piece is by using multiple mats. In the piece below, you can see how adding a few mats in different tones really draws the eye in to the piece. They accentuate the different tones in the artwork, as well.